Valley · Old town · Sea
La Orotava & Puerto de la Cruz
A fertile valley with historic houses and balcony-lined lanes, plus the harbour town of Puerto de la Cruz.
The north is greener and often cloudier than the south.
What to expect
La Orotava lies in the green valley of the same name in the north, with Teide as a backdrop. The old town on the slope is famous for its mansions in Canarian style with carved wooden balconies, above all the Casa de los Balcones from the 17th century. There are also baroque churches, cobbled lanes and the Jardín Victoria with a view over the valley where bananas and vines grow.
Weather and best time
The north is greener and milder than the south, and in winter clouds drift through more often. A highlight is the Corpus Christi festival (usually in May or June): streets and the town hall square are covered with elaborate carpets of flower petals and volcanic sand. The date changes every year.
Getting there and practical
La Orotava is easy to reach by car on the northern motorway, and buses run too. The old town is steep and narrow, so it is best to park on the edge. Puerto de la Cruz is only a few minutes away. The road up to Teide National Park starts right above the town.
Tips and notes
Plan two to three hours for the walk and wear comfortable shoes, as it goes up and down hill. Typical are crafts such as fine embroidery (calados), wineries in the surroundings and Canarian food with gofio. It combines well with a Teide trip on the same day.
Nearby
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General guidance without guarantee: rules, access and opening times change. Please check with official sources before travelling.